Beauty 08/23/24

20+ Best Drugstore Makeup Products, Tried and Tested

When it comes to makeup, there’s no denying that we all have trusted products that we reach for on repeat. Once you find a worthy match to add to your cosmetics bag, it stays there for years to come. And trust me, I know firsthand that makeup can be hard to feel impressed by.

You might think you have to spend a pretty penny to find something quality. However, I’ve been finding that that’s just not the case. In an effort to switch things up, I’ve been testing out a variety of drugstore makeup products, and honestly I’ve been impressed by how many items I’ve used and loved.

I know, I know — you’re likely thinking these finds won’t hold up to your standards, but I’ll challenge you to try them out for yourself (you’ll be surprised!) Plus, I’ve already done the legwork and curated this list of the best drugstore makeup products on the market. I’ll be sure to continue adding to it as I come across more finds worthy of a spot of this list.

Drugstore Makeup Routine

Face Products

First things first: Every polished makeup look starts with a pretty canvas (aka your skin!) I know it can be especially hard to find quality products that work well with your skin type and tone, but honestly, I’ve been impressed by the selection at drugstores. While these options are certainly more affordable than most other picks, they don’t lack in the coverage department. Here are some of my favorites…

– I won’t try to claim that this foundation is as good as the Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter, but for the difference in price, this one is still worth trying out. It accomplishes the same goal: to blur and perfect your skin. You can wear it on its own (all over your face) or use it as a spot treatment for troublesome areas.

– For $7, it’s hard to beat this concealer (which I know is surprising because it’s generally a hard product to find and love.) Many of them just don’t offer long-lasting coverage, but that’s not the case with this one. The applicator brush is the perfect size and makes it easy to use in tight areas like your under eyes.

– Makeup sponges are one item that I don’t think you ever need to spend a lot of money on. These get the job done without breaking the bank — just don’t forget to clean them regularly!

– I love a good liquid blush moment. I think they offer a more subtle and natural look, and this find is frequently in my rotation. The shade is pretty for year-round wear and I appreciate that it’s buildable.

– This CC cream is comparable to the IT Cosmetics version (at half the cost.) It has a nice texture that seeps into your skin seamlessly, all while diminishing the appearance of dark spots and circles. It also has SPF 30 in it which is an added bonus since you can skip a step in your skincare routine. My only complaint is that I wish it came in more shade options!

– I know it can be tempting to skip the setting spray step in your makeup routine, but this mist makes a case for starting to incorporate it. It’s lightweight yet really “locks” your look in place. I notice a difference when I use it and when I forget.

– If you prefer powder over mist, this will be your new go-to. It does a good job at absorbing any excess oil or “dewiness” that might result from your makeup look. Oh, and it makes a noticeable difference in your pore size.

Eye Products

When you really want to take your makeup up a notch, focusing on your eyes is smart. Whether it’s for everyday wear or for a special event, these picks have all passed my test with flying colors. From a lengthening mascara to a budge-free eyeliner, you’ll find a handful of stellar picks below!

– Lining your brows will help them look more full, framing your face in the process. This pencil is only $3(!) and it does just what you need to have a more elevated look.

– Prefer a gel product to add to your brows? This one comes in brunette, deep brown, neutral brown, and taupe so you can flaunt your true match. It’s ideal for slicking your brows into place while also offering a dose of color.

– When I’m opting for a more dramatic makeup look, eyeshadow is a must — and there certainly isn’t a shortage of palettes out there. This one has some classic colors that are both neutral and statement-making when you apply them a certain way (it’s all up to you!)

– If applying eyeshadow seems like a tedious task, you might have better luck with a shadow stick. It’s fool-proof to use and always takes my makeup to the next level. I wear it in the shade “Cool Beans.”

– Eyeliner is another makeup bag essential that can really make your eyes pop. The only problem is that so many of them get smudged throughout the day. So far, I have found this one to be pretty long-wearing (and I love that it stays put!)

– Am I the only one who thinks mascaras can get wildly expensive? This $6 find keeps budget in mind while leaving you with a natural and clump-free look.

Lip Products

Lips are often forgotten in the makeup realm or they’re seen as an after thought that only gets attention as you’re heading out the door. These products make a case for that habit to change. They all leave you with a more well thought out look that’s feminine, flirty, and fun…

– I’ve been very into lip gloss lately and have found that I reach for this one as much as I do my more expensive, big brand options. Because it’s technically a lip oil, I’ve found that it’s actually quite hydrating.

– This is another lip gloss fave (the shade “Sweet Talker” is so nice for day to day wear!) as well as this non-sticky option.

– If lipstick isn’t your thing but you still like the look of it, this product might be worth a try. It’s a bit lighter than traditional lipsticks while offering the same end result: a punch of color. Oh, and it has a slight plumping effect which can make your pout look ever so slightly larger (in the best way possible!)

– And for those of you who aren’t afraid to dabble in the lipstick world, this one has been a longstanding favorite of mine. It’s bright, bold, and well priced! If you’re craving a classic red lip moment, this is typically what I like to use.

– I have shared my love for this lip mask many times before, and it’s just too good not to share here as well. If you struggle with dry or rough lips any time of the year, this hydrating product will be a game changer. Just apply a small amount of it at night and wake up with softer lips. You can also wear it during the day for a shiny and glossy look.